357 Magnum Deer Load for my Henry Big Boy Silver

Published on September 16, 2017
Duration: 30:05

This guide details the process of developing a .357 Magnum deer hunting load for a Henry Big Boy Silver rifle, as demonstrated by Johnny's Reloading Bench. It covers component selection, precise reloading techniques, and range testing to achieve optimal accuracy and velocity for hunting in states like Ohio and West Virginia. The expert-level instruction emphasizes methodical load development for effective big game hunting.

Quick Summary

Developing a .357 Magnum deer load for a Henry Big Boy Silver rifle involves selecting 158gr Hornady XTP bullets, Winchester 296 powder (16.7 grains), and magnum primers. This combination, seated to 1.580" OAL with a heavy crimp, achieved ~1700 FPS and sub-2-inch groups at 100 yards, meeting new Ohio hunting regulations for straight-wall cartridges.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Introduction and Hunting Regulations
  2. 02:40Component Selection
  3. 04:30Load Data and Testing Plan
  4. 07:52Reloading Process
  5. 16:54Range Testing and Ballistics
  6. 18:44Results and Final Load Selection

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the key components for developing a .357 Magnum deer load?

Essential components include a .357 Magnum rifle (like the Henry Big Boy Silver), appropriate bullets (e.g., 158gr Hornady XTP), magnum pistol primers (like Winchester WSPM), suitable powders (Winchester 296 or Alliant Power Pro 300-MP), and quality brass (Starline).

What is the recommended load data for a .357 Magnum deer hunting cartridge in a rifle?

For a 158gr Hornady XTP bullet in a Henry Big Boy Silver rifle, 16.7 grains of Winchester 296 powder, seated to 1.580 inches OAL with a heavy crimp, achieved approximately 1700 FPS with good accuracy at 100 yards.

How do Ohio's recent hunting regulations impact deer hunting with .357 Magnum?

Ohio now allows straight-wall pistol cartridges between .357 Magnum and .50 caliber for deer season, making cartridges like the .357 Magnum a viable option for hunters using suitable firearms.

What reloading tools are necessary for creating .357 Magnum hunting ammunition?

Key reloading tools include a resizing/flaring die set (like Lee Deluxe Pistol Dies), a hand priming tool (RCBS), a powder measure with trickler, and a factory crimp die (Lee Factory Crimp Die) for ensuring cartridge integrity.

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